Universal
Studios Florida – Hollywood:
Mel's Drive-In

What:
Fast-food burger jointWhere: At the end of Hollywood Boulevard, across
from the lagoonPrice Range: $

Remember the nostalgia
drenched drive-in restaurant from American Graffiti? Well here
it is in some of its splendor. No curvy car hops, alas, but you
will see a few vintage cars parked
outside.

Inside, you will find a fairly typical fast-food emporium with fifties decor. Place and pay for your burger or hot dog and fries order at the cashier, then step forward to pick it up, wrapped in paper. If the food and non-service won’t bring back memories of those great cheeseburgers and real-milk shakes you had way back when, at least there are jukeboxes to flip through at the tables. An outdoor seating area looks out to the park’s central lagoon.

The menu is limited, but the chili is hearty. Soft drinks, shakes, and root beer floats are the beverage choices here. Mel’s is a good spot for a quick bite with kids who like no surprises with their meals.